Healthcare workers' knowledge of inoculation injuries and glove use

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Abstract
Healthcare workers' (HCWs') occupational risk of exposure to blood-borne pathogens has been well documented. Subsequent educational programmes, awareness campaigns and policy implementation made limited impact on HCWs' level of knowledge of these risks and compliance with universal precautions. Two hundred HCWs completed a questionnaire to evaluate their level of knowledge. Results demonstrated that despite a comprehensive education programme for nurses and training for medical staff, knowledge of inoculation injuries and associated issues remained inadequate. Indeed, policies and procedures were not followed. Furthermore, gloves were not routinely worn in the clinical setting. Educational programmes are essential to inform HCWs of occupational risk of exposure to blood-borne pathogens and guide practice following an inoculation injury. However, efficacy of such programmes must be reviewed, alternative strategies evaluated, and the cause of HCWs' limited knowledge determined.